Anglesey farm praised for climate-friendly food production
Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies visited Castellior Farm to see how sustainable practices are shaping the future of agriculture in Wales.
The visit highlighted the success of farmer Dylan Jones, who has combined profitable beef farming with strong environmental stewardship.
Mr Irranca-Davies said: "The sustainable production of food remains at the core of the Sustainable Farming Scheme.
"But significant changes to our climate and weather will continue to develop over the next few decades, and it is essential that we take steps now to build resilience and adapt to the potential impacts of climate change.
"Dylan is an exemplar in showing how farms can modify pasture management to address the impacts of climate change while staying profitable – good for business and good for our environment."
Castellior Farm, covering 332 hectares and run by Mr Jones and his father Wyn, has received several industry awards.
Mr Jones has also secured funding through Farming Connect's Try-Out Fund for a project titled Evaluation of Phosphate sources with homegrown cereals in relation to farm nutrient balance and environmental footprint.
He said: "I was pleased to welcome the Deputy First Minister to the farm to showcase the progress and developments we've made over the past ten years.
"Our collaboration with Farming Connect at various stages throughout this period has provided valuable guidance and helped give us the confidence to move forward.
"During the visit, we had an open and constructive discussion about the ongoing challenges facing the agricultural sector.
"I was grateful for the Deputy First Minister's respectful approach and willingness to listen to my concerns, particularly around food security and the long-term future of agriculture in Wales."
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Eirwen Williams, director of service delivery for Farming Connect at Mentera, said: "This visit was a great opportunity for the Deputy First Minister to see the impact this important programme has on the agricultural industry.
"As the agricultural industry transitions to the new Sustainable Farming Scheme the support offered by Farming Connect will be vital.
"It's been a pleasure working with Dylan on some of the innovative projects he's been doing in Castellior."
Results from Mr Jones' work will be shared at a Farming Connect Our Farms Farm Walk in September.
The event will give other Welsh farmers the opportunity to learn from Castellior's approach to sustainable farming.
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